The artwork of Leonard Peltier, Native American activist and member of the American Indian Movement, will be on display in Ashford University’s Cortona Art Gallery March 9-28. 

“Sharing my art makes my heart feel good,” Peltier said. “Through my paints I can be with my people, in touch with my culture, tradition and spirit. I can watch little children in regalia, dancing and smiling; see my elders in prayer; behold the intense glow in a warrior's eye.” 

His paintings are collected by celebrities including Oliver Stone, Peter Coyote, Jane Fonda, Val Kilmer and Michael Apted. 

Darren Thompson, Native American flute player, will perform at a reception on Thursday, March 12 from 4-6 p.m. in the Gallery. Of Ojibwe and Tohono O’odham heritage, Thompson has emerged as one of the new generation of Native American flute performers. He has traveled extensively in the United States, performing in more than 100 cities. In addition to his performances, he spends much of his time giving educational workshops on the revival of American Indian music and efforts of other artisans. He is currently writing his first book, an autobiography which he hopes will educate people about the struggles of Native people. 

The Cortona Gallery is located on the second floor of Ashford University’s Clare Hall at 400 North Bluff Boulevard in Clinton. The Gallery is named for Sister Cortona Phelan, OSF, former president of Mount St. Clare College and former president of the Sisters of St. Francis.  For many years, Sister Cortona influenced the quality of education at the College through her teaching of American history and her love of the arts. She also served as MSC Academy Principal and as Dean of Students at the College. 

The Gallery is open to the public, free of charge, every weekday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and for private showings by appointment. For further information, please call 563.242.4023. 

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is a coeducational institution regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, with programs in education, business, accounting, criminal and social justice, computer animation and graphic design, and other areas.  The University offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as a range of student activities and athletics, at its Clinton campus.  Online degree programs are available in education, organizational management, business administration, and psychology.  The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable on-campus and online programs, with tuition fees among the lowest in the U.S. compared to other private institutions.  Its tagline is: “Higher Education Made Affordable”^SM.  For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, Director of Public Relations, at 858/513-9240 x2513.